Citizen Printer

What's a potential problem when attempting to soundproof an impact printer?

Public Comments

1. Hi, The first problem is the heat buildup in the sound proof case you need to fit around a printer. So you need to fit a fan to improve cooling. If you are using tractor fed paper you need a slot for the paper to spool out and that usually ends up spooling inside the case.8-(( It would better to change the printer! Arnak
2. Ah the dear old dot matrix! All I can say it must be very noisy, because I've had two in my time and they weren't that noisy. One was a 9 pin and the other a 24 pin. They used to just chatter quietly in the background. However you have to think that if you box them in and you get a paper jam it could end up a serious one if you can't get to it fast enough. Also if your using tractor paper feed, your going to have a feed and delivery problem if you box it in. If it distracts you that much the I suggest you get an ink jet printer. You can buy them now starting at about £30.
3. Except of course, some applications and situations require the use of a dot matrix or impact printer. Many couriers still use them (multi-part stationary) as do loads of garages (for use with the Kerridge system). Most trade wholesalers (plumbers merchants etc also use them). Our local hospital uses them a lot as well (Tally and Epson mainly). They are far from obsolete. A decent sound proof hood is expensive, and should contain additional fans. Often they are quite heavy, and have a lift up lid with a gas ram to support it. There are no real problems using them, apart from it's slightly more fiddly to feed the paper through initially.